A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Prague vs. Novalja for Nightlife, Couples, Backpackers, and Families

Should you visit Prague or Novalja?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Prague and Novalja. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Prague

Prague is a beautiful, festive, and fun-filled city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Novalja

Novalja is a energetic, backpacker-filled, and wild town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife and beaches.

Prague and Novalja: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Prague or Novalja?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Prague than Novalja, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Prague is better known for its museums, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Novalja is more popular for its resorts and beaches. Prague is more touristy than Novalja and is known for its world-famous old town, local beer, wild nightlife, historic landmarks, and the Charles Bridge. Also, Prague is famous for The Prague Castle. Novalja is well known for its crazy beach parties and popularity with the young backpacker crowd.

How is Prague different from Novalja?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Novalja and Prague. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Prague or Novalja?

Prague is very popular for its museums and landmarks. However, Novalja is a town with minimal options for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Prague are among the most recognizable in the world. Most of the city's historic sights are found in the Old Town. Famous landmarks include the Charles Bridge, the Prague Castle, and the National Museum.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Novalja. It's a beach and party destination, not somewhere you go for museums or historical sights.

Is the Food Better in Prague or Novalja? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dining out at restaurants in both Prague and Novalja can be an enjoyable experience.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Prague. The meals are hearty and filling. There's lots of stew and dumplings that make for a soothing meal on a cold winter day. Goulash is a favorite dish at most of the traditional restaurants around town.

Novalja may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. You'll find a lot of places to grab a quick bite to eat or a cheap meal around town. There are pizzerias, fast food, and some nicer bistros to choose from.

Is Prague or Novalja Better for Nightlife?

Both Prague and Novalja are amazing when it comes to partying.

The nightlife in Prague is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. The city has long been famous as a beer drinking capital, and although prices are higher than they once were, the fun is the same. The nightlife vibe is great any night of the week, but weekends tend to be the most active.

Novalja is a world class party destination. This is a party island, and you'll find most of the action around Zrce Beach, which is about a 20 minute drive from town. The party scene appeals to the young, backpacker crowd and there's live music, DJs, and parties that last well into the morning. Zrce Beach has a huge number of bars and clubs including three clubs that are listed on the Top 100 DJ's Magazine Best Clubs List.

Is Prague or Novalja Better for Music?

Prague is very popular for its live music scene. However, Novalja is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Prague The city has a long history of classical music, but rock, pop, and almost any other genre is popular here as well.

Novalja is not a live music destination.

Is Prague or Novalja Better for Resorts?

Novalja is a moderate town for its resorts. However, Prague is not a resort destination.

Not known for its high-end resorts, Novalja offers a few options. Most of the accommodation is in the form of apartments or hostels. There are also some hotels on the island, but because the number is limited they can be quite expensive.

Prague is not a resort destination.

Is Prague or Novalja Better for Beaches?

Novalja is a well-known place for the beache. However, Prague is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Novalja for it's beautiful beaches. You'll find a mix of beaches near town including hidden gems that feel remote and undiscovered as well as wild party beaches like the famed Zrce Beach. Many beaches are pebbly or have coarse sand with turquoise blue waters.

Prague is not a beach destination.

Is Prague or Novalja Better for its Old Town?

Prague is very popular for its old town. However, Novalja does not have a historic old town.

Prague has a world-famous historical area. Based around Old Town Square, this city has one of the most impressive old towns in the world.

Novalja does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Prague or Novalja?

Prague is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Novalja is a town with minimal options for its shopping areas.

Prague is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are many brand name stores in New Town, particularly around Wenceslas Square. In Old Town, Czech porcelain and Bohemia Crystal are popular things to buy.

Shopping in Novalja can be found for those interested. This isn't the place to go shopping for clothing or local items. You will find some beach and souvenir shops around town though.

Is Prague or Novalja Better for Families?

Prague is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Novalja is a town with minimal options for its kid-friendly activities.

Prague is a very kid-friendly city. The city has a fun energy that appeals to adults and kids alike. Make sure you check out the Astronomical Clock and tour the famous Prague Castle. You'll also find the best playgrounds in town around Slavonic Island.

For families, Novalja is not always the best place to visit. While there are family-friendly places to visit like some beaches and waterparks, at its heart this is a party destination that is known for its wild parties and crazy crowds.

Is Prague or Novalja Better for Couples?

Prague is very popular for its romantic activities. Also, Novalja is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Prague makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Whether you're enjoy beautiful architecture, historical buildings, or a night out drinking, this city makes a great stop for a couple's vacation.

Novalja is a good city for couples to visit. Stunning beaches, blue waters, and surreal landscapes make this a one-of-a-kind place to visit. But romance isn't on most people's minds, as this is first and foremost a party destination.

Is Prague or Novalja Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Prague and Novalja are amazing destinations for backpackers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Prague. It has its share of fun hostels that often have a social vibe that can't beat. The city is also a fun and affordable place to explore.

A large number of backpackers visit Novalja, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. Famous for its wild parties that attract backpackers and young travelers, this island destination has become a hotspot for backpackers and party-goers. There are hostels around town that offer a cheap place to crash.

Is Prague or Novalja Better for Students?

Prague is very popular for students. However, Novalja is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Prague. If you're studying abroad and want a cultural city with a young and fun vibe, the this is among the best.

Novalja is not popular with students.

Is Prague or Novalja Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Prague is very popular for its public transit. Also, Novalja is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Prague has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. Metro lines, trams, and buses will take you smoothly through old and new town.

While Novalja offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are local buses around the island or you can rent a personal vehicle like a motorbike or scooter.

Is Prague or Novalja a more walkable city?

Prague is very popular for its high level of walkability. Also, Novalja is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Prague on foot is easy. The tourist area through old town is easily explored on foot. Walking around town is the best way to soak up the atmosphere.

Novalja is a somewhat walkable city. In town, you can reach most places on foot, but if you want to explore further you'll need to find another way to get around.

For even more information, also check out Is Prague Worth Visiting? and Is Novalja Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Novalja or Prague?

How long in Prague or Novalja?

It's fun to spend time in either Prague or Novalja. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Prague due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Prague, and 2-4 days is enough time in Novalja.

Families should spend more time in Prague than Novalja. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Prague, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Prague than Novalja. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Prague that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Prague than Novalja if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Prague.

One day in Prague or Novalja?

Because Prague is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife when visiting the destination of Novalja. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Prague or Novalja?

Because Prague is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Prague has to offer.

Novalja is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Prague or Novalja?

Prague is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Prague has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Novalja. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. Most people come for the beaches. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Prague or Novalja?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Prague. Because Prague is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife when visiting the backpacker-filled destination of Novalja. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Czech Republic, The Best Tours for Seniors to Czech Republic, The Best 2-Week Tours from Dubrovnik, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Split.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Prague and Novalja, we can see that Prague is more expensive. And not only is Novalja much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Novalja would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Novalja and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Prague would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Prague than you might in Novalja.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Prague Expensive? and Is Novalja Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Prague or Novalja?

Prague has a larger population, and is about 560 times larger than the population of Novalja. When comparing the sizes of Prague and Novalja, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.